3D printer: what it is, how it works, features and how to choose one

Do you want to print meat or fish for dinner? This question is no joke, as 3D printers have already been created that can print some food items. Instead of ink, such equipment uses organic matter. So far, these are experiments. But in many countries around the world, 3D printers are already actively used to print various plastic products. Let's consider how such equipment works, its capabilities and a few tips on the choice.

How a 3D printer works

Most 3D printers are used in this way:

• First, a virtual template or 3D model is created. It is downloaded from the Internet or designed in the program yourself. This is how the product will look in space. You get a three-dimensional image of it.
• The 3D printer is connected to a computer and activate the slicer program. It divides the template into layers. In this form, the operator sends it to the 3D printer and starts printing.
• Plastic in the form of thin filaments arrives at the print head and is heated so that it becomes liquid. This consistency passes through the nozzle of the extruder. Motors through toothed belts create the movements of the print head. It applies the plastic to the platform from bottom to top according to the 3D model. This is how the object is formed. When the printing is finished, the product is removed on a pallet.

There is another printing technology. There are 3D printers that do not heat the material, but apply liquid photopolymer, which hardens under the influence of ultraviolet rays.

Possibilities of 3D printers

Undoubtedly, such equipment will soon be used en masse, because it has very wide possibilities. Use material of any colors and combine them with each other. It is possible to create such products:

• Models for architectural and design projects.
• Toys.
• Parts of various mechanisms and machinery.
• Medical products.
• Utensils.
• Models for educational institutions.
• Advertising constructions.

3D printers are capable of creating complex shapes and patterns. It is possible to form a product of different dimensions depending on the size of the equipment chamber.

How to choose a 3D printer

Take into account such factors:

• Choose the technology of 3D printing. If you need to create high-precision miniature products for medicine, jewelry, dental products, you need SLI or DLP technology. To make products of different types, more dimensional shapes, FDM-printer is suitable.
• The size of the working area. To create large objects, choose equipment with a printing area of 1 meter in length, width and height. For very small objects may be enough platform with sides of 100 mm. Most standard items are created on equipment with a print area of 200 x 200 x 200 mm.
• If you have to produce complex models of several colors, you need equipment that works with two materials at the same time.
• It is good if the 3D printer has a heated table. Then it will be possible to work with more materials, such as nylon or ABS, which need to be heated.
• It is desirable to choose a model with a closed housing. This also expands the possibilities of using the equipment.

Choosing a 3D printer, it is important to familiarize yourself with reviews of the manufacturer and specific models. This will help to select equipment that is suitable for the functionality and cost.